The Machame Route is the most scenic and popular trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it is perfect for adventurous trekkers looking for breathtaking landscapes, excellent acclimatization, and a high summit success rate. This route takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, offering an unforgettable trekking experience.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. After settling in, you will attend a detailed pre-climb briefing conducted by your lead guide. The briefing will cover the route plan, safety measures, altitude precautions, and what to expect during the climb. Our team will also assist you with an equipment check to ensure you have everything you need for the adventure. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying a hearty dinner while preparing for the start of your trek the next morning.
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Moshi
After an early breakfast, we drive to the Machame Gate, which is the official starting point of your Kilimanjaro adventure. On arrival at the gate, you will complete registration formalities while the porters arrange the gear and supplies. The trek begins with a walk through a dense tropical rainforest where you will experience high humidity and lush green vegetation. You will hear birds chirping and may even spot monkeys such as colobus and blue monkeys swinging through the trees. The trail gradually ascends, and as you climb higher, the forest becomes less dense before opening into heather and moorland zones. After a trek of approximately five to six hours, you will reach Machame Camp located at an elevation of 2,835 meters. The camp offers spectacular views of the surrounding rainforest and distant landscapes. Dinner is served at camp followed by a restful night under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 11 km
Wake up to a warm breakfast and breathtaking mountain views. Today’s trek takes you out of the lush forest into the moorland zone, characterized by low shrubs, wildflowers, and unique plant species such as the giant lobelias and groundsels. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend along a ridge, and the scenery becomes more open with panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Meru in the distance. As you continue, the vegetation becomes sparser, and you will feel the effects of higher altitude. After about five to six hours of trekking, you will reach Shira Camp at an elevation of 3,750 meters. From here, the views of Kibo Peak, the snow-capped summit of Kilimanjaro, are magnificent. After settling in at camp, enjoy a hot meal and relax as the night temperatures drop significantly.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 4–6 hours | Distance: 5 km
Today is a crucial acclimatization day following the principle of “climb high, sleep low.” After breakfast, you will leave Shira Camp and ascend steadily towards Lava Tower at 4,630 meters. The landscape changes dramatically into a rugged alpine desert with sparse vegetation and large volcanic rocks scattered across the trail. As you reach Lava Tower, take time to rest, enjoy your packed lunch, and allow your body to adapt to the altitude. From here, you will descend to Barranco Camp located at 3,960 meters. This descent is essential for acclimatization and will help prepare you for the summit attempt later in the trek. Barranco Camp is one of the most picturesque campsites on the route, set in a valley below the imposing Barranco Wall with dramatic views of Kibo and the surrounding peaks. Enjoy dinner and prepare for tomorrow’s exciting challenge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 7–8 hours | Distance: 10 km
After an early breakfast, you will begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling non-technical climb that rewards you with spectacular views of the valleys and peaks around you. The climb may appear intimidating, but with careful steps and the guidance of your experienced team, you will make it safely to the top. Once you conquer the Barranco Wall, the trail continues through a series of ridges and valleys, crossing small streams and rocky paths. After about four to five hours of trekking, you will arrive at Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters. This camp is strategically located and serves as an important acclimatization stop before reaching Barafu Camp. After settling in, enjoy a warm meal and spend the evening resting and admiring the views as the night sky fills with stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 4–5 hours
Today’s trek is relatively short but involves a steady climb to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The terrain is rugged and mostly composed of volcanic rock with little vegetation. As you ascend, the oxygen levels decrease, so it is essential to move slowly and stay hydrated. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you will have the opportunity to rest, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare for the most challenging and rewarding part of your journey: the summit night. The campsite offers dramatic views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding glaciers. Go to bed early as you will wake up before midnight to start your summit push.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 3–4 hours
Summit day begins in the dark of night around midnight. After a light meal and hot drink, you will start the ascent towards the summit under a blanket of stars. The trail to the top is steep and challenging, both mentally and physically, as you navigate through switchbacks in freezing temperatures and thin air. After several hours of slow and steady climbing, you will reach Stella Point at 5,756 meters, where the first rays of sunrise illuminate the horizon, creating an unforgettable sight. From Stella Point, it is a short but demanding climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Standing on the Roof of Africa is a life-changing moment that you will never forget. After spending some time celebrating and taking photos, begin the descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch. You will then continue your descent to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters for a well-deserved rest after a 12 to 14-hour day of trekking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 12–14 hours
On your final day on the mountain, enjoy breakfast before making your way down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trail is lush and vibrant, providing a beautiful end to your Kilimanjaro journey. At the gate, you will receive your summit certificate, marking your incredible achievement. From there, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi where you can enjoy a hot shower, a celebration meal, and a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Trek Time: 3–4 hours
$000
The Rongai Route is unique because it approaches the mountain from the north, making it the quietest of all the routes. It is also a great option for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a less steep climb.
$000
The Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route, offering trekkers a comprehensive view of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. It’s a perfect choice for those who want the most time to acclimatize and enjoy breathtaking panoramas.
$000
The Shira Route starts at an already high altitude, offering an immediate immersion into Kilimanjaro’s alpine environment. It’s less frequently used than the other routes, offering trekkers a more peaceful experience. However, its higher starting point makes it slightly more challenging.
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
The typical duration is 5 to 9 days, depending on the route. The longer the climb, the better the chances of acclimatization and a successful summit.
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires physical stamina and mental preparation. While it’s not a technical climb, it can be challenging due to the high altitude. We recommend a moderate level of fitness and commitment. The difficulty varies depending on the route and how well you acclimatize.
No, you do not need technical climbing skills. However, the trek requires good physical fitness and the ability to handle altitude. If you’re a beginner, routes like Marangu or Rongai may be more suitable.
Depending on the route, you will either camp in tents or stay in mountain huts. The Marangu Route offers huts, while other routes like Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai require camping with tents.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Essential items include:
Warm clothes (even in the tropics, temperatures can drop below freezing)
Waterproof gear (jackets, pants)
Climbing boots
Sleeping bags
Sunscreen
Headlamp/flashlight
Daypack
Personal items like toiletries and medication
We will provide a detailed gear list to help you pack efficiently.
The summit success rate ranges from 60% to 90%, depending on the route, acclimatization, and physical preparedness. Routes like Lemosho and Machame tend to have higher success rates due to better acclimatization schedules.
We provide transfers from Moshi or Arusha to the starting gate of the trek. Our team will ensure smooth transport from your hotel to the departure point.
Lujoma Expeditions is a locally owned Tanzanian tour company specializing in custom safaris, cultural experiences, mountain treks, and beach holidays across East Africa.
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